Yûta Shimotsu's second feature film, 'New Group', will stream on Shudder starting November 6. The movie centers on high school student Ai as a cult-like mentality spreads through her community, transforming an ordinary gymnastics routine into a disturbing and deadly experience[1][2][3][4].
Anna Yamada, Yuzu Aoki, and Pierre Taki headline the cast, with several other performers in supporting roles[2][3]. The film previously appeared at international festivals including Fantasia and Sitges before receiving its Shudder release date according to iHorror and Bloody Disgusting[1][3]. 'New Group' continues Shimotsu's focus on blending body horror with societal themes as seen in his earlier film, 'Best Wishes to All'[1][3].
According to Dread Central, the story explores conformity through a horror lens, mixing elements of satire and body horror within a high school gymnastics squad[2].
Sources
- iHorror: ‘New Group’ Trailer Turns a Gym Routine Into a Death Dance
- Dread Central: ‘New Group’ – Shudder Dates ‘Best Wishes to All’ Director’s Bizarre Horror Film for November
- Bloody Disgusting: ‘New Group’ Trailer: Shudder’s Cosmic Horror Twists Conformity Into Body Horror
- Fangoria: One Of Japan’s Weirdest New Horror Movies Is Coming To Shudder
